Apply/change dressings or bandages in a clinical setting.

Applying/changing may include

• sterile dressings
• burn dressings
• bandaging and splinting with an elastic wrap
• pressure bandaging
• wound care
• debridement and irrigation
• wound closure (e.g., butterfly bandage, Steri-Strip, self-adhesive transparent dressing).

Process/Skill Questions: 

• What is the difference between a dressing and a bandage? When is a dressing appropriate, and when is a bandage appropriate?
• Why is maintaining sterility when preparing a sterile dressing change so important to the patient's healing?
• What damage can occur when an elastic wrap is not applied properly?
• What is appropriate dressing for vascular access? What are appropriate dress materials?